Luis Rivera ’25 is no stranger to being a part of something bigger than himself. The psychology major from North Carolina has continued to impact Wabash’s campus since his arrival, and not in ways that are always immediately visible.
“I think I have tried to live my life in a way where I can encourage a campus culture of open mindedness. I think it is important that we are not complacent as a student body and we are critical of our own definition of brotherhood, one which includes all different types of men,” said Rivera.
Rivera embodies the mentality that Wabash is an “and” school. Currently Rivera serves as the president of Psi Chi (the Psychology Honors Society), Academic Policy committee chair, Senior Fellow for Wabash Democracy and Public Discourse lead speech tutor for the Rhetoric Department, Board Intern at Humans United for Equality, member of the Sphinx Club, Malcom X Institute of Black Studies, La Alianza and Lambda Chi Alpha, all while majoring in Psychology and minoring in both Black studies and gender studies. Previously, Rivera served as President of Lambda Chi Alpha, ’shOUT, and held various roles in Student Senate.
“Part of it is in my nature,” Rivera said while detailing his involvement. “I am not going to find the great connections that I have while staying in my room. I never thought I would become so connected and ingrained into the Wabash culture, but meeting amazing people and feeling the sense of community is something I love, especially when I go back home and walk on NC State’s campus and feel the absence of it.”
Regardless of the impressive resume, Rivera’s influence can be felt in every corner of the classroom.
“Academically, Luis is one of the best students we have had in years,” said Robert Horton, Rivera’s Capstone Advisor. “He sets the bar high for other students and even for us faculty in terms of atmosphere, he is such a positive, uplifting and humble person. While he is self-confident; he knows the limitations of his knowledge and asks some of the most interesting questions.”
After graduation, Rivera is attending Duke University – The Fuqua School of Business to pursue a Master of Management Studies (MMS). Rivera wants to eventually obtain an MBA and is considering a career in consulting for DEI firms or working in higher level management for non-profit organizations focused on supporting LGBTQ+ people.
“Whether it is working for social justice or supporting marginalized communities more broadly, I just want to work where I can make people feel valued,” said Rivera.
Rivera is nothing short of a trailblazer. As a person of color, a gay man and an out-of-state student, there are countless decisions and judgements made every day that could rightfully frustrate the senior; nevertheless, Rivera still walks with his head high and flashes his iconic smile to all Wabash men and faculty. Not everyone can say they have been a fraternity president and a torch bearer for diversity and inclusion on top of being an exemplary student.